KOTA KINABALU: A second Muslim former Chief Minister has thrown his support behind the staging of a Christian concert, saying fear by some quarters over the band being led by a singer whose name is “Israel” or his personal political stand should not warrant cancelling it.
Parti Warisan President Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal called on the authorities to allow the proposed concert by American Christian artiste Israel Houghton to proceed in Sabah, subject to the required approvals and rules.
“Sabah has always drawn strength from its people living together across race and religion. This is not merely a slogan. It is how our towns, schools, markets and families have lived for generations,” said Shafie in a statement.
GRS component Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) also said concern over the concert is misplaced and that Sabah has its own immigration powers under the Malaysia Agreement.
He said every community must have the freedom to practise their faith peacefully with respect for one another.
Shafie noted that the work of Houghton and his band is followed by Christians around the world, including many in Sabah.
“Supporting the freedom of Christians in Sabah to attend this gathering does not mean endorsing every personal or political view held by a visiting performer,” he said.
He said the authorities must apply the rules fairly. “If there is a specific legal obstacle, it should be stated clearly,” he said, adding that any genuine security concerns should be addressed by police taking appropriate measures to maintain peace and protect those attending.
Shafie said objections alone should not determine whether a religious gathering can take place.
People have the right to disagree and to express their objections peacefully, he said, but those who wish to attend also deserve fair treatment and respect.
“Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and people of other faiths have shared this land for generations. Respect for each other’s beliefs includes the freedom to gather, to pray, to sing and to organise religious programmes within the law.
“We must uphold that tradition. Our religious harmony depends on ensuring that every community feels respected and secure in practising its faith,” he said.
He called on the relevant authorities to facilitate the event once the necessary requirements are met, and urged all parties to exercise restraint and mutual respect.
“We must uphold the law, protect peaceful religious practice and preserve the harmony that has always been Sabah’s strength,” he said.
